Belonging to the Coronaviridae family, avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) causes respiratory, reproductive, and renal diseases in poultry. Preventative measures lie mainly in vaccination, while the gold standard for IBV classification and differentiation is based on the sequence analysis of the spike 1 (S1) gene. In this study, we tested a new assay for IBV strain classification that is less expensive and requires reduced time and effort to perform. We carried out a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction followed by high-resolution melting (qRT-PCR/HRM) curve analysis. In this study, qRT-PCR was conducted on a partial fragment S1 gene followed by a high resolution melting curve analysis (qRT-PCR/HRM) on 23 IBV-positive samples in Jordan. For this assay, we utilized the most common IBV vaccine strains (Mass and 4/91) as a reference in the HRM assay. To evaluate the discrimination power of the qRT-PCR/ HRM, we did the sequencing of the partial S1 gene. It was shown that HRM was able to classify IBV samples into four clusters based on the degree of similarity between their melting points: The first cluster exhibited the highest similarity to the 4/91 strain, while the second was similar to the Mass-related IBV strain. Although the third cluster contained the highest number of samples, it displayed no similarity to any of the reference vaccine strains, and, after comparing them with the sequencing results, we found that the samples in the third cluster were similar to the variant II-like (IS-1494-06) IBV field strain. Finally, the fourth cluster comprised one unique sample that was found to belong to the Q1 IBV strain. Our developed qRT-PCR/HRM curve analysis was able to detect and rapidly identify novel and vaccine-related IBV strains as confirmed by S1 gene nucleotide sequences, making it a rapid and cost-effective tool. Keywords: high-resolution melting curve analysis, infectious bronchitis virus, spike 1 gene.

This study aimed to contribute to the productivity improvement of the local chickens by enhancing their egg production traits using a crossbreeding program between Alexandria (local strain) and Lohmann White (commercial strain). One thousand two-hundred and eighty-five 4-week-old chicks from two strains: Alexandria local strain (AA) and Lohmann White commercial strain (LL) and their reciprocal crosses obtained from 16 males and 160 females, were used to produce four genetic groups (AA, LL, AL, and LA). Differences among genotypes, direct additive, heterosis, and reciprocal effects were investigated regarding the following traits: Body weight at 4 and 8 weeks and at the age of sexual maturity, age at sexual maturity, egg production, average egg weight, and egg mass during the first 90 days of laying. Statistically significant effects of the genotypes were observed on traits studied. Analysis of direct additive effects showed that AA was superior as a sire strain for improving body weight at early age. For egg traits (age at sexual maturity, egg production, average egg weight, and egg mass), LL was better as a sire strain to improve these traits. Significant positive heterosis percentages were observed for body weight. The crosses (AL and reciprocal) were significantly superior in egg traits (egg production, average egg weight, and egg mass) compared to the local strain. The cross (LA) laid significantly earlier than the local strain. Analysis of reciprocal effects cleared that the local strain could be used as a strain of dam to improve body weight and egg traits. Crossing improved egg production, egg weight, and egg mass in hybrids compared to the local strain. Keywords: additive effect, crossbreeding, heterosis, laying hens, reciprocal effect.

The present study investigated the influence of liver tumor structure on life expectancy in dogs. Diseases of the liver comprise 5-25% of all non-communicable diseases in dogs, and primary hepatic tumors account for 0.6-1.3% of tumors. This research aimed to study the post-operative life span of animals with primary or metastatic tumors of the liver. During the study period, 7124 oncological operations were performed in our clinic. In total, 128 liver tumors were detected in live animals, while 323 were detected posthumously. Forty animals underwent surgery for various liver tumors. In dogs with primary liver tumors, the average age was 11.9 years and the average body weight was 15.5 kg, while in dogs with liver metastases, the mean age was 11.4 years and the average body weight was 24 kg. The ratio of males to females among dogs with primary liver tumors was about 1:1 (ten females and nine males), while that among dogs with metastatic liver damage was clearly predominantly female (14 females and two males) because females often undergo surgery for cancerous mammary glands or ovaries. The size of tumors and the number of affected lobes had a significant effect on the post-operative life span. With a tumor size of <5 cm and a lesion covering less than two lobes of the liver, life expectancy was significantly longer and the prognosis was more favorable. In cases of large tumors or those affecting more than two lobes, life expectancy was significantly reduced and the prognosis was cautious to unfavorable. Keywords: dogs, life span, liver tumor, metastatic tumor, primary tumor.

This study examined the incidence, demographic predictors, and map patterns of dog bites to humans in unincorporated Harris County, Texas, USA. Dog bites reported to Harris County Veterinary Public Health (HCVPH) between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2016, were analyzed in this retrospective cohort study. Canine and victim characteristics and bite circumstances were evaluated to establish risk factors for bites. Geographic location was used to produce choropleth maps. There were 6683 dog bites reported to HCVPH between the years of 2013 and 2016, with stable incidence rates over time. The incidence was highest for both children and older adults. Dogs with the primary breed of Pit Bull had the greatest frequency of bites (25.07%), with the second highest breed being Labrador Retrievers (13.72%). Bites were more common from intact dogs of both genders, especially from intact males. Persons aged 70+ had the greatest incidence of severe injury (14.09/100,000). A strong correlation between dog bite incidences and stray dogs was found after controlling for the human population and income. Dog bites remain a largely preventable issue, and risk factors identified in this study can help direct preventative efforts to reduce the incidence of dog bites. Keywords: companion animal behavior, epidemiology, injury, overpopulation, public health.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an acute viral infection affecting cloven-hoofed animals causing vesicular erosions in the oral cavity and interdigital space. The present study was undertaken to ascertain the time-dependent changes in clinical, hematological, and biochemical profiles in different breeds of cattle following experimental infection. The animals were inoculated with 1.0×104 50% bovine tongue infectious dose (BTID50) by intradermolingual route. Clinical signs were observed, and blood/serum samples were collected at different time intervals. The white blood cell count declined sharply on days 7-13 and recovered on day 14 post-FMD infection. Biochemical analysis of serum markers for vital organ profile revealed no marked damage. However, a significant increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) value indicated pre-renal azotemia. Transient hyperthyroidism was indicated by the rise in T3 and T4 that can be correlated with a decrease in triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. In the cardiac damage assessment study, a distinct breed difference was observed wherein Malnad Gidda calves showed no cardiac damage. Except thyroid profile, BUN, and creatine kinase-myocardial band, all other serum biochemical parameters showed no significant abnormalities, whereas lymphopenia is the only hematological change and it is suggested that effective ameliorative measures should be targeted mainly on the feed/water intake, thyroid gland, and the level of lymphocytes. Keywords: biochemical profile, experimentally infected indigenous and crossbred calves, foot-and-mouth disease, hematological profile.

Aflatoxins are metabolites of molds that exert potentially toxic effect on animals and humans. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in raw cow milk collected during 1 year (2016-2017) from different regions of Algeria and risk factors associated with the contamination. During the survey period, 84 samples of raw milk were collected in three regions of Algeria (northeast, north center, and northwest) during four seasons. AFM1 levels were analyzed by competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. AFM1 was detected in 39 (46.43%) samples (total mean concentration, 71.92 ng/L; range, 95.59-557.22 ng/L). However, the AFM1 levels exceeded the maximum tolerance limit set by the Food and Drug Administration in the USA (500 ng/L) in only 1 sample (1.19%). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p<0.005) between AFM1 levels in milk samples collected in the spring and autumn. The mean AFM1 levels in samples collected in the spring were significantly higher than those in samples collected in autumn. The survey indicates that farmers involved in milk production should be made aware of the adverse effects of aflatoxin contamination in animal feed. A systematic control program of supplementary feedstuff for lactating cows should be introduced by the public health authorities. Keywords: aflatoxin M1, Algeria, cow milk, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

The present study was designed to investigate the occurrence and distribution of Salmonella serotypes in chicken meat samples, and to explore the susceptibility of the strains to antimicrobials, as well as their virulence-associated genes. Two-hundred retail chicken meat samples from different shops, as well as 25 stool specimens from retail shop workers, were included in the study. The collected samples were examined bacteriologically for the presence of salmonellae. Salmonella isolates were serotyped using a slide agglutination test for O and H antigens and were screened for the presence of five virulence genes (stn, pef, invA, sopB, and avrA) using a uniplex polymerase chain reaction assay and for their susceptibility to 18 antimicrobial agents using the disk diffusion method. Thirty-one Salmonella isolates belonging to 12 different serovars were identified. Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Kentucky were the dominant serovars (22.6% each). Salmonella isolates displayed a high antibiotic resistance against erythromycin, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, doxycycline, cephalexin, cefaclor, tetracycline, polymyxin B, cefuroxime, vancomycin, and streptomycin. All Salmonella isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR) and demonstrated different virulence genes. The majority of Salmonella serovars (87.1%) harbored sopB gene, 54.8% carried avrA and pef genes, while all isolates carried invA and stn genes. The presence of virulent MDR Salmonellae in raw chicken meat could allow the possibility of transmission of these resistant serovars to humans. Therefore, strict hygienic measures should be followed on the whole poultry production chain to decrease the potential transmission of Salmonella infection from poultry meat to humans. Keywords: antibacterial susceptibility, broilers meat, multidrug resistance, Salmonella, virulence.

At present, there are no data about the efficacy of some recent antibiotics on Escherichia coli in broiler chickens in the study area. This study was designed to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of cefepime, doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline against multidrug-resistant-extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (MDR-ESBLs) producing E. coli in broiler chicks. A total of 34 MDR-ESBLs E. coli isolates were used in this study. In vitro evaluation of the antibacterial efficacy of cefepime, doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline were performed using disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays. In vivo evaluation of the efficacy of the antibiotics was perfumed using 180, 2-week-old chicks challenged with MDR-ESBL-producing E. coli strain O78. Chicks were divided into six groups (30 chicks each) according to the treatment regimen. Treatment was administered to chicks in Groups 3-6 intravenously, twice per day for 1 week using one antibiotic per group at concentration 10 times the determined MIC. Chicks in the positive control (Group 1) were challenged and received 0.2 ml of sterile Tryptone Soy Broth (TSB), while those in the negative control (Group 2) were not challenged and received 0.2 ml of sterile TSB. The severity of clinical signs, gross lesions, and mortality rate was scored and compared between groups. All E. coli isolates were sensitive to doripenem and tigecycline, while 88% were sensitive to cefepime and only 23% were sensitive to tetracycline. In vivo antibiotic efficacy evaluation in challenged chicks revealed a significant reduction in the severity of clinical signs, gross lesions, and mortality (3%) in chicks treated with cefepime compared to non-treated chicks (55%). There was no significant effect on the severity of clinical signs, gross lesions, and mortality in chicks treated with doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline compared to non-treated chicks. The mortality rates of chicks treated with doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline were 57%, 50%, and 90%, respectively. The results of this study indicate that most MDR-ESBLs producing E. coli isolates were sensitive to doripenem, tigecycline, and cefepime. However, in vivo study indicated that only cefepime was effective and resulted in a significant reduction in clinical signs, gross lesions, and mortality in infected chicks. Therefore, cefepime could be used to treat naturally infected chickens with MDR-ESBLs producing strains of E. coli. Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, chickens, colibacillosis, Escherichia coli, multidrug-resistant-extended-spectrum beta-lactamases.

Kidney regeneration is required for dogs with end-stage renal failure. Decellularization is one of the bioengineering techniques, which involves the removal of all tissue cells and cellular components and conservation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Studies in rats have shown that decellularized kidney has regenerative potential; however, there are no reports on renal decellularization in dogs. Here, we showed the decellularization of the canine kidney. The renal artery of the cadaveric canine kidney was cannulated and the whole kidney was frozen at –80°C. After completely thawing, it was perfused with physiological saline and sodium dodecyl sulfate (0.5%, 6 h) through the cannulated renal artery to achieve decellularization. To assess the efficiency of the decellularization protocol, histological and immunohistochemical analysis of decellularized kidney was performed. The results of hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) staining revealed that the decellularized canine kidney had no apparent cellular components. In addition, 4’,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining showed no visible nuclear components within the whole decellularized kidney. Therefore, both H and E and DAPI staining showed decellularization of the canine kidney. Our decellularization protocol also preserved the basement membrane of glomerulus, shown by periodic acid methenamine silver, periodic acid–Schiff, fibronectin, and collagen type IV stain. Our decellularization protocol could eliminate cellular components and remaining native ECM structures of canine kidney. These results could promote further research into canine kidney regeneration, which may be the first small step to regenerate the canine kidney waiting for renal transplantation. Keywords: bioengineering, dog, extracellular matrix, kidney, regeneration.

Milk is a food that contains almost all the essential nutrients needed for growth and maintenance for both young and old animals and man. Since quite nutritious and in high demand, dairy products should be free of both chemical and biological contaminants. Unfortunately, antibiotics used in the treatment of infectious diseases in dairy cattle are often seen in their products if withdrawal periods of those drugs are not observed before milking. This study aimed to detect the presence of antibiotics and the level of tylosin in fresh and fermented (nono) milk from cows in Delta state, Nigeria. Two hundred and five samples comprising 126 fresh milk and 79 fermented milk (nono) were sampled from Kwale, Ozoro, and Oleh representing one senatorial district of Delta state, South-South Nigeria. They were screened for the presence of tylosin and other antimicrobial residues using four-plate test and tylosin was confirmed with high-performance liquid chromatography. Antibiotic residues were obtained in 76% and 85% of fresh milk and nono, respectively. Tylosin residue was also detected in 24% fresh milk and 11% nono samples at mean concentrations of 14.64±0.69 μg/l and 7.97±0.23 μg/l, respectively. The mean concentrations of tylosin from both milk types were below the recommended maximum residue limit (MRL) of 50 μg/l in dairy. High prevalence of antimicrobial residues in fresh milk and nono shows that consumers in the study area are predisposed to health hazards due to the presence of residues of different antibiotics in fresh milk and nono. Although tylosin was confirmed in both milk products, the mean concentrations were below the MRL. However, it is still very vital to resort to the observance of withdrawal periods and avoid gross misuse of antimicrobials. It is also necessary to emphasize the need for effective prevention of infectious diseases and most importantly create awareness and establish a national antibiotic residue monitoring program in Nigeria. Keywords: antimicrobials, dairy, milk, residue, tylosin.

Brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease that affects fertility in farm animals. The risk factors of brucellosis have not been well studied. This study aimed to understand the seroprevalence and risk factors of brucellosis among livestock in Bangriposi block of Mayurbhanj district in Odisha, a region that borders Similipal wildlife reserve. Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) was carried out to estimate the seroprevalence of the livestock in this region. Bivariate analysis was carried out to analyze the association between the variables and brucellosis. Binary logistic regression was performed to assess the risk factors associated with brucellosis in the livestock. Based on RBPT, the seroprevalence of brucellosis among cattle and goats was estimated to be 1.1% and 11.2%, respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis indicates that study area, age, goats, animals with a history of abortion, and rearing practices were the major risk factors in this region. This is one of the first studies in India to shed light on risk factors of brucellosis, an important neglected disease that affects the health of animals and humans and nation's economy. Keywords: binary logistic regression analysis, bivariate analysis, brucellosis, rose bengal plate test, seroprevalence.

This study aimed to develop equations to predict daily milk production (DMP) based on linear body and udder morphometry of Holstein Friesian (HF) dairy cows. The experiment was conducted on 174 lactating HF dairy cows reared by farmers at different locations under similar conditions. The age, parity, and body condition score of experimental animals were limited to 0.25 of the standard deviation value above or below the average. The average DMP was based on farmers' records. Morphometry components, i.e., body length (BL); chest circumference (CC); front udder height (FUH), rear udder height (RUH); and udder circumference (UC) were directly measured using a tape; meanwhile, body weight (BW) was estimated using the Indonesia Winter formula. The relationship variables of morphometry components (body and udder morphometry) and BW on DMP were analyzed by regression. The result showed no correlation (p>0.05) between CC and BW on DMP. Meanwhile, DMP obtained linear regression (p<0.05) with the mathematical equation: 1.30+0.11*BL; 13.90+0.41*FUH; 11.02+0.18*RUH; and 3.87+0.16*UC. This study shows that the DMP of dairy cows could be predicted based on their BL and udder morphometry. Keywords: body length, front udder height, milk production, rear udder height, udder circumference.

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) remains a major public health issue in Zambia and has been exacerbated by human immunodeficiency virus prevalence and consumption of unpasteurized milk in the Southern Province of the country. The prevalence of bTB has been established to be linked to Kafue Lechwe, which act as reservoir hosts and share grazing fields with domestic cattle. No studies have so far used geographic information system (GIS) to investigate the relationship between the reservoir hosts (Kafue Lechwe) and domestic animals. This study, therefore, aimed to apply GIS to investigate the spatial distribution of bTB in Namwala District of the Southern Province of the country. To investigate the spatial distribution of bTB, geographical positioning system (GPS) coordinates representing 96 cattle herds across 20 independent villages were captured alongside risk factor data. The 96 herds were based on abattoir reports of condemned carcasses and a trace back. Positive herds were confirmed by cross-reference to purified protein derivative tests conducted by the District Veterinary Office. The GPS coordinates were transferred into ArcView 3.2 and laid on the map of Namwala District alongside physical features, including national parks, game management areas, and flood plains. Questionnaires were administered across 96 independent households to assess risk factors of bTB transmission. The results revealed a "clustered" spatial distribution of the disease in cattle in Namwala District of Zambia, particularly significant in the eastern interface areas of the district (p=0.006 using Moran's I). Abattoir to production area trace back revealed a herd-level prevalence of 36.4% (95% CI=26.7-46.3%) among cattle herds in Namwala District, whereas individual animal prevalence ranged from 0% to 14% (95% CI=2.4-26.2%). Further, GPS data indicated that the majority of the positive herds were located at the livestock/wildlife interface area. Contacts with wildlife, coupled with sharing grazing, and watering points were found to be significant risk factors for bTB transmission. This study demonstrated the presence of bTB in cattle and associated spatial risk factors. In particular, bTB was observed to be a function of animal location within the livestock/wildlife interface area. GIS is thus an applicable and important tool in studying disease distribution. Keywords: geographic information system, reservoir hosts, spatial distribution, zoonotic tuberculosis (bovine tuberculosis).

The main objective of this study was to estimate the effect of supplementation of rumen-protected choline (RPC) and green tea extract (GTE) on production parameters in transition Karan Fries (KF) cows. The present experiment was carried out on 32 pregnant KF cows. In the control group, cows were fed basal diet. In T1, each cow was fed RPC (55 g/day), in T2 – GTE (3 g/d), and in T3 – RPC + GTE (55+3) g/day along with basal diet. The duration of the experiment was 30 days before calving to 60 days after parturition. Feeding of both RPC and GTE significantly increased milk yield (p≤0.01), 4% fat corrected milk yield (p≤0.01), milk fat (p≤0.01), and total solid content (p≤0.05) than control. There was no significant difference (p≥0.05) in milk protein, lactose, and solids not fat ( SNF) content among the groups. Supplementing RPC and GTE in combination improved milk yield and fat content of the milk without altering protein, lactose content of the milk in transition KF cows. Keywords: green tea extract, milk fat, milk yield, production, rumen-protected choline, transition Karan Fries cows.

Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) is an alphavirus that causes encephalitis with a high impact on public health in Latin America. However, only in Guatemala, Trinidad and Tobago, and Mexico have found antibodies in VEEV in bats, using immunohistochemistry, the sensitivity and specificity are improved; thus, it is better for demonstrating natural infection in bats as potential hosts. This study aimed to determine the presence of VEEV in tissues of frugivorous bats. A prospective descriptive cross-sectional study with a non-probabilistic sampling was carried out in 12 localities of Córdoba and Sucre area of the Colombian Caribbean. Two hundred and eighty-six bats were captured using fog nets, and the specimens according to taxonomic keys were classified. According to the Ethics Committee of the University of Córdoba, the bats were treated with analgesics and anesthetics. Blood samples were taken and then euthanized to obtain tissues and organs which were preserved in liquid N2 at –196°C. A portion of each organ was fixed in 10% buffered formalin for the detection of antigens by immunohistochemistry. Several pathological anatomy analyses were performed to determine the histological characteristics of tissue lesions of frugivorous bats naturally infected with the VEEV. Of the 286 bats captured, 23 species were identified. In samples of the brain, spleen, and lung of two frugivorous bats (2/286=0.70%) Artibeus planirostris and Sturnira lilium, the presence of VEEV was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. A fragment of the nsP4 non-structural protein gene corresponding to the alphavirus was amplified. Two samples were positive (2/286=0.70%) in frugivorous bats; A. planirostris (code GenBank: MG820274) and S. lilium (code GenBank: MG820275). The present study showed the first molecular evidence and cellular evidence (histopathology and immunohistochemistry) of natural VEEV infection in frugivorous bats in Colombia; these bats could be a host of this zoonosis. Keywords: Alphavirus infections, Chiroptera, pathology.

Hormones play a significant role in supporting reproductive processes. Predisposition to metabolic disorders may result from biological alterations in the neurohormonal system, thus leading to impaired immune function and poor reproductive performance. The aim of this study was to determine the reproductive hormonal profile in cows with reproductive conditions in semi-arid areas of the North West Province, South Africa, to establish possible correlations between different conditions and the hormonal profile. Blood samples were collected from cows in different communal areas of Mafikeng. Convenience sampling was used to collect samples for the study. Blood samples were collected cows experiencing dystocia (n=50), retained placenta (n=13), downer cow syndrome (n=34), vaginal prolapse (n=16), and abortions (n=69), following cases reported at the Animal Health Hospital of the North-West University, Mafikeng Campus. Descriptive statistics, such as mean and standard deviations, were used to describe the distribution of hormone levels across reproductive conditions. p-value less than the significance level was set at 5% (p<0.05). Data obtained revealed significantly higher estradiol in abortion (1122.99±71.99 pg/ml), downer cow syndrome (781.32±135.7 pg/ml), and dystocia (862.09±123.44 pg/ml). Oxytocin (OT) differed significantly in cows with dystocia (370.50±71.66 pg/ml) and abortion (574.73±60.65 pg/ml). Significantly low progesterone (Pg) was observed in abortion (2.45±1.509 ng/ml) and dystocia (8.59±0.402 ng/ml) while increased prostaglandin alpha was observed in cows with vaginal prolapse and abortion. The findings highlight an increase in serum estradiol and OT in aborting cows. Low Pg and estradiol in cows with vaginal prolapses and retained placenta were noted. An association was seen between downer cow syndrome and high concentrations of estradiol and Pg. Prostaglandin alpha may increase in cases of vaginal prolapse and abortion. Hormonal alterations were observed and may contribute to the incidences of different reproductive conditions. Keywords: cows, hormones, reproductive conditions.

Channa striatus extract, a freshwater snakehead fish known as Haruan, is popular in Southeast Asia for consumption and as a traditional therapeutic remedy for wound healing. C. striatus is also used in osteoarthritic for its anti-inflammatory. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of antibacterial properties of C. striatus extract against oral bacteria and to investigate the cytotoxic activity against Vero cells. The authors prepared C. striatus extract in chloroform-methanol solvents. Next, the authors took subgingival microbiological samples from 16 cats that had periodontal disease. The authors determined the antibacterial properties of C. striatus extract against the isolated bacteria using the disk diffusion method and a broth microdilution-based resazurin microtiter assay. Finally, the authors used the Vero cell line to evaluate the cytotoxic activity, and they assessed the cell availability using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The results showed weak antibacterial activity of C. striatus extract against Pseudomonas spp. and Escherichia coli. In addition, the authors found that minimum inhibition concentration values ranged between 400 and 500 mg/mL, and minimum bactericidal concentration values ranged between 650 and 550 mg/mL. However, the cytotoxic results were promising, showing that C. striatus extract increased the cell viability and growth when it was at a higher concentration. The extract also promotes growth and cell proliferation. These findings suggest that C. striatus extract promoted cell proliferation in vitro and could be a plausible therapeutic wound healing alternative for periodontal disease in cats. Keywords: antibacterial properties, Channa striatus, feline periodontitis, periodopathogen.

The aim of this study was to investigate the toxicity of goat bile in BALB/c mice since some Indonesian people consume raw goat gallbladder to treat malaria and increase stamina. Acute toxicity test was done in six groups of BALB/c mice using 100%, 50%, 25%, 12.5%, and 6.75% of goat bile and negative control. The death of mice was observed within 14 days. In the subacute toxicity test, the body weight and hematology parameters on day 0 and day 4 post-treatment were evaluated. The mice were closely observed for 28 days before plasma collection for the blood biochemistry evaluation. Mild diarrhea was observed in acute and subacute toxicity tests. No death of mice was observed in acute test. Goat bile did not inhibit the increase of the body weight of mice. A slight reduction in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in mice treated with 25% and 50% goat bile, however, remained normal in mice treated with 100% goat bile. The red and white blood cell count were not affected. Liver and kidney functions were not affected by goat bile treatment as revealed by the plasma level of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine, which remained in the normal range. Goat bile treatment in BALB/c mice caused mild toxicity in mice. Hydrophobic bile acids may cause the toxicity of goat bile in mice; therefore, it is recommended that goat bile consumption not to be taken oftenly to avoid its harmful effect. Keywords: BALB/c mice, goat bile, Indonesia, toxicity.

Empirical antimicrobial therapy is frequently given in superficial bacterial folliculitis (SBF) and otitis externa (OE) in dogs, especially for the initial clinical presentation. Culture and subsequent antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) are generally limited to chronic cases with poor response to initial therapy. Several factors contribute to the failure to implement the use of AST in veterinary practice, i.e., long laboratory turnaround time or special requirements for sample shipping. Point-of-care (PoC) testing might reduce laboratory turnaround time and costs and the risk of emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens. This study evaluated the Speed Biogram™ PoC test in canine SBF and OE compared with conventional methods for culture and AST. Thirty-four canine samples were analyzed: eleven from SBF, seven from bacterial OE, four from mixed OE, six from Malassezia spp. OE, and six negative controls. Sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of the PoC test and the agreement between the PoC test and conventional methods were evaluated. Se and Sp of PoC test in discriminating between healthy and unhealthy subjects were 100% (95% confidence interval [CI] 87.66-100.00) and 100% (95% CI 54.1-100.0), respectively. For bacterial identification, the k value was 0.532. Se and Sp of PoC tests for AST were 81.73% (95% CI 72.95-88.63) and 93.10% (95% CI 88.86-96.98), respectively with a total good agreement between tests (mean k=0.714), but major (8/27) and very major (19/27) errors were observed in 55% of bacterial conventional culture-positive samples. PoC test can identify dogs with SBF and OE, but AST is not sufficiently accurate. The lack of susceptibility testing for methicillin makes this test inappropriate for use in small animal practice. Keywords: antimicrobial susceptibility test, dog, otitis externa, point-of-care test, superficial bacterial folliculitis.

The aim of this study was to know crude guava leaf tannins effect on motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane of stored spermatozoa of Etawa crossbred goats. Macroscopic assessment of normal Etawa crossbred semen was followed by dilution with a glucose solution at a 1:10 ratio to increase volume. The diluted semen was treated by adding crude guava leaf tannins into 1 ml of the semen glucose diluent, and five treatments were obtained, namely, control group (C), with no added tannins; treatment Group 1 (T1), with 3%; treatment Group 2 (T2), with 6% tannins; treatment Group 3 (T3), with 12% tannins; and treatment Group 4 (T4), with 24% tannins. Each treatment used five replications. Then, microscopic analysis of the treated and control semen was carried out after 15 days of storage at 4-5°C temperature. The parameters observed were motility, pH, viability, abnormality, and intact spermatozoa plasma membrane. The spermatozoa motility in Group C was the highest (76.60±1.47). The motility in Group T1 did not differ from that in Group C, but was different and higher than that in Groups T2, T3, and T4. The pH of Group C tended to be acidic after 15 days of storage (4.78±0.01) as compared to the initial pH of fresh semen (6.76±0.12). The pH in Group C did not differ from that in the Groups T1 and T2, but differed from that in the T3 and T4 groups; the pH in the T3 and T4 groups was similar. The viability of spermatozoa in the T1 group was higher than that in all treatments (64.60±2.76); the lowest values were found in Group C (28.94±1.02). Group C had the lowest number of normal spermatozoa, with a mean of 72.58±3.48. The total number of abnormalities in the T2 group did not differ from those in the T3 group, and abnormalities in the T4 group did not differ from those in Group C, which exhibited the highest abnormalities in the head, neck, and tail. The most significant decrease was observed in the intact plasma membrane of spermatozoa on addition of 12% and 24% crude guava leaf tannin in glucose diluents. The addition of 3% crude guava leaf tannin to crossbred Etawa goat semen diluted with glucose diluent and stored for 15 days at 4-5°C resulted in a significant effect on spermatozoa motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane, whereas the administration of 24% crude guava leaf tannin resulted in low live percentage of spermatozoa. Keywords: crude tannins, intact plasma membrane, motility, spermatozoa, viability.

Veterinary World editorial team would sincerely like to thank all of our reviewers who contributed to peer review for the journal in 2019.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is endemic in several developing countries and affects poor farmers through loss of production, death of diseased animals, and loss of animal byproducts. Forty-three samples were collected from 12 sites of five geographical located areas from suspected FMD virus (FMDV)-infected cattle during 2018. This study aimed to isolate and characterize the FMDVs using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and gene sequencing. Forty-three FMDV-suspected clinical samples cultured on BHK-21 cell were examined, followed by virus serotype identification using RT-PCR and gene sequencing. Twenty-nine (67.44%) samples were cultured on BHK-21 cell, of which 14 (32.56%) were not isolated; the 43 samples were analyzed using FMDV screening primers and serotype-specific primers. The contribution of the disease-causing serotype was serotype O of 8 (18.60%) samples, serotype A of 20 (46.51%) samples, and mixed infection (O and A) of 1 (2.33%) sample. Serotypes O and A were further characterized by phylogenetic analysis, which grouped them under East Africa 3 and Africa topotypes of genotype IV, respectively. Interestingly, serotype A was isolated for the 1st time from Keyet sub-woreda and Mulo woreda of Ethiopia, and mixed serotypes (O and A) were identified from the purchased animal. Molecular test result, sequencing, and phylogenetic tree reconstruction analysis revealed that the 2018 FMD outbreak in Ethiopia was caused by FMDV serotypes O and A. FMDV serotype A was the predominant strain circulating in most study areas of the country. Infections in one sample with mixed serotypes of O and A were also reported. The authors recommend a vaccine matching study of those field isolated viruses with the vaccine strain. Keywords: Ethiopia, foot-and-mouth disease virus serotypes, phylogenetic analysis, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.

The radiation emitted from cell phones has various deleterious effects on human health. The article considers the problem of the effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) of cell phones on the behavior of animals. The use of mobile phones is continually increasing throughout the world. All of the world population uses mobile phones widely; thus, having strong and daily effect on the brain. There is no restriction on the use of mobile phones. Getting more advantages and convenience of mobile communication, the population is trying not to hear the information about possible risks to their health, there is no element of self-restraint. The aim of this work was to study behavioral patterns in response to the influence of cell phones. The experiments were carried out on 90 white outbred rats weighing 250-300 g. Experiments were carried out and the effect of EMR from Samsung Galaxy J1 mini and Xiaomi Redmi S2 phones on animal behavior was studied. Behavioral reactions were studied using the open field method. By the quality of the act of locomotion in the second experimental group is reduced by 30% and also in this group by the time of the act is 23% lower than in the control data. Vertical motor activity, a support stand, is also suppressed in the second experimental group: 61% lower in number and 47.2% lower in act time compared to the control group. Based on the data, we can conclude that the EMR of the phone Samsung Galaxy J1 Mini affects the behavior of animals to a greater extent than Xiaomi Redmi S2. By the frequency of the act, sniffing is 26% lower; by the time of the act, it remained at the level of control data in the second group. In the third group of the animals, the number and time of the act are 15% lower than the control data. The support stands as an indicator of research activity. In the second group the act of stand with support – by number was lower by 57% than the control data, this indicates that research activity is being suppressed. According to the above changes under the action of EMR from the Samsung Galaxy J1 Mini and Xiaomi Redmi S2 phones, the motor component of behavior is suppressed. The research component of behavior in all groups of animals is enhanced due to high rates of sniffing. It is possible that in animals under stress, the motivation to interact with the environment decreases, leading to an excessive self-accentuation of the animal. Keywords: cell phone, central nervous system, electromagnetic pollution, electromagnetic radiation, locomotion.

Fertility is the most important aspect in the efforts to increase livestock populations. Protamine and various proteins in sperm and seminal plasma are the results of the molecular analysis which can be used as a marker of fertility. Each of the proteins plays an important role in the normal function of sperm, starting from the formation of sperm structure, motility, capacitation, cell protection, acrosome reactions, successful fertilization, egg activation, and embryonic development. Finally, these molecular components can be a marker of fertility and can help to diagnose the cases of infertility/subfertility in livestock in the field.

This study aims to describe the clinical symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of urolithiasis of the lower urinary tract and to determine the main risk factors involved in the occurrence of urinary lithiasis in cats in Algeria from 2016 to 2018. During the study period, 465 cats were examined and 32 cases of urolithiases were selected and investigated by conducting physical examinations, blood analyses, urinalysis, X-ray radiography, and ultrasonography. Parameters such as breed, age, or sex were studied and reported in a farm return to analyze risk factors involved in the formation of lower urinary urolithiasis. The most clinically relevant symptoms of urolithiasis observed in cats were dysuria, pollakiuria, hematuria, and stranguria. Urinalysis and blood analysis revealed a significant presence of urinary crystals and acute kidney failure in nine cats. The ultrasonography and radiography confirmed the diagnosis of urolithiasis with the incidence of 43.75% and 31.25%, respectively. The lower urinary tract urolithiasis appeared to be more frequent in European and Siamese cats. In addition, cats aged between 4 and 8 years old were the most affected. Male cats (87.50%) were more affected than female cats. Finally, the lower urinary tract urolithiasis was more frequent in cats consuming the commercial pet food, previously castrated, and confined inside the house. Complete clinical assessments, in addition to complementary examinations, are necessary and beneficial in treating the animal and preventing possible complications. Whether the choice of therapy is surgical or treatment with drugs, it is crucial to understand that the elimination of the stone is not an end, but the beginning of a series of investigations. Because of their impact on both the formation and elimination of metabolites, it has been found that factors, such as race, gender, age, diet, and lifestyle, should be considered as potential risk factors for urolithiasis. Keywords: cat, epidemiology, management, radiography, ultrasonography, urolithiasis.

This cross-sectional study aimed to analyze the associations between different types of housing, management, and facilities on the prevalence of lame, causing lesions in smallholder dairy farms in Algeria. The on-site investigation took place between December 2012 and May 2015. All cows were locomotion scored on a four-point scale, and foot lesions causing lame were diagnosed and recorded. Factors related to the farm and the cows' conditions were also assessed. The association between the possible risk factors and lame lesions was assessed using univariate analysis. Of the 349 cows evaluated, 13% were lame (lameness score ≥2), with higher lameness values recorded for the hind feet than for the forefeet. Cows without lameness were classified as healthy. The two most frequent lesion diagnoses observed in lame cows were interdigital dermatitis/heel horn erosion (ID/HE; 39%) and interdigital phlegmon (IP; 35%), followed by traumatic lesions (T; 11%), digital dermatitis (DD; 8.7%), and laminitis-related diseases (L; 6.5%). The risk of being lame was increased in large herds with cows of the Holstein breed, and those in the third parity and above. Tie housing, concrete floor, concentrate feeding, zero-grazing, and the use of foot trimming occasionally were associated with increased risk for the presence of lame lesions. The region and footbathing frequency had no association with the prevalence of lame lesions (p≥0.05). These results have important implications; they indicate that several aspects of housing, management, and facility design are common protective factors for the prevalence of lame lesions. These factors should be maintained correctly to not only reduce the number of lame cows in these herds but also decrease the direct and indirect costs associated with cases of lameness. Keywords: Algeria, housing, lame cows, lesions, management, pasture.

The aim of this study was to investigate babesiosis in dogs of different breeds and ages and of both sexes in Baghdad Province by molecular detection of Babesia canis using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing followed by phylogenetic analyses. Blood samples were collected from 310 dogs of different ages and breeds, and of both sexes in different areas of Baghdad Province from December 2018 to September 2019; during clinical examinations, body temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, and signs of diseases were recorded. PCR was used to amplify a specific 450-bp fragment of the 18S rRNA gene of B. canis. PCR products were sequenced, and MEGA 6.0 software was used for analysis. Chi-square and odds ratio tests were used to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of babesiosis. Clinical signs of babesiosis included paleness or icterus of the mucus membranes, tick infestation, and febrile illness during the acute and subacute phase. The prevalence of infection with B. canis was 5.1%, with the higher prevalence in male dogs and in dogs <3 years of age. Huskies were more likely to be infected than other dogs. Infection prevalence was highest in April and June and was higher in spring and summer than in winter. Using sequence data, 14 isolates of Babesia canis canis and one isolate of each Babesia canis rossi and Babesia canis vogeli were identified. Phylogenetic analyses of B. canis canis revealed that three shared clades and several isolated lineages were similar to other isolates (97-99% similarity), whereas B. canis vogeli and B. canis rossi showed similarities of 98% and 99% with isolates from other geographical regions. This study provides the first molecular record and phylogenic analysis of B. canis in dogs in Iraq, and it will be valuable for confirming clinical signs and studying epidemiological risk factors of babesiosis in dogs. Keywords: 18S rRNA gene, Babesia canis, Baghdad, dog, Iraq.

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of variable levels of silkworm pupae oil and roughage: concentrate ratio on in vitro methane production, fermentation characteristics, and rumen protozoa population. In vitro gas production study (24 h) was performed with graded levels of silkworm pupae oil, namely, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 5% of the basal diet and four variable dietary regimes consisting roughage and concentrate in different proportions (70:30, 60:40, 50:50, and 40:60). At the end of incubation, gas samples were analyzed for methane, while fermented rumen liquor was used for protozoa enumeration. A separate set of incubations was carried out for the determination of in vitro dry matter digestibility. Results from the in vitro studies revealed no adverse impact of the silkworm pupae oil supplementation up to 2% level on total gas production. However, supplementation beyond 2% has shown a reduction in total gas production. Incubation with variable levels (0.5-5%) of silkworm pupae oil with different dietary regimes indicated negligible (3-5%) to a substantial reduction (25-30%) on methane production. A graded decrement in methane production was recorded with increasing levels of silkworm pupae oil. Similarly, the protozoal populations were decreased from 10 to 51.5% with graded levels of silkworm pupae oil in different dietary regimes as studies did not reveal any significant (p>0.05) variation between 2 and 4% of oil supplementation. The silkworm pupae oil supplementation at 2% level decreases methane production by 12-15% without any adverse impact on feed fermentation. Oil supplementation may have a more pronounced effect on methane reduction if added to high roughage diet at in vitro conditions. However, in vivo, studies in ruminants are warranted to confirm the methane reduction with silkworm pupae oil supplementation. Keywords: dry matter digestibility, methane production, protozoa, silkworm pupae oil.

This study evaluated the effect of feeding a graded amount of extruded jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis) on nutritional status, production performances, and economic performance of beef cattle. The supplement called "KOROPASS" was prepared from the extruded jack bean (according to the extrusion heating process). Sixteen male Friesian-Holstein crossbred cattle were divided into four groups and fed on KOROPASS as per the regimen: R0 (total mixed ration [TMR] without KOROPASS), R1 (TMR supplemented with 3% KOROPASS), R2 (TMR supplemented with 6% KOROPASS), and R3 (TMR supplemented with 9% KOROPASS). The in vivo experiment lasted 44 days. TMR contained 12% crude protein and 60% total digestible nutrient. The consumption and digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), and total protein (TP), feed efficiency, average daily gain, and income over feed cost (IOFC) were evaluated. KOROPASS supplementation significantly increased (p<0.05) beef cattle consumption of DM (from 7.83 [R0] to 8.33 [R1], 8.91 [R2], and 9.69 kg/day [R3]), OM (from 6.72 to 7.17, 7.69, and 8.38 kg/day, respectively), and TP (from 892 to 1020, 1182, and 1406 g/day, respectively). The elevated levels of KOROPASS significantly increased (p<0.05) digestibility in terms of the levels of DM (from 42.9 [R0] to 50.6 [R1], 58.0 [R2], and 63.6% [R3]), OM (from 54.3 to 59.6, 66.3, and 70.6%, respectively), and TP (from 65.0 to 67.1, 75.0, and 80.7%, respectively). Dietary supplementation of KOROPASS significantly increased (p<0.05) metabolizable protein, average daily weight gain, and feed efficiency of beef cattle. Finally, dietary KOROPASS supplementation, especially at 9%, resulted in the highest (p<0.05) IOFC value of beef cattle. Dietary supplementation of KOROPASS improved feed utility, as reflected by the increase in consumption and digestibility of DM, OM, and TP. Further, KOROPASS supplementation improved feed efficiency, growth, and economic performance of beef cattle. The findings indicate the potential value of KOROPASS as a feed supplement for beef cattle. Keywords: beef cattle, extruded jack bean, feed utilization, growth.

The objective of the present study was to detect Neospora caninum DNA in the placenta of sheep and evaluate the association of risk factors to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive and histopathological analysis of the placenta and fetal tissue samples of aborted fetuses. Fresh placenta from 51 aborted ewes was collected for PCR assay. Placental and fetal tissues of aborted fetuses, including brain, heart, liver, lung, and thymus, were collected for histopathological analysis, besides the risk factor data were obtained during the time of sampling. From 51 placentas examined by PCR, 13.73% appeared positive to N. caninum DNA. The relationship between PCR positive and the risk factors revealed a significant difference (p<0.05) in age of the dam, fetal age, feed source, water source, and the presence of other animals at farm, whereas the type of birth, stillbirth, and size of flock showed insignificant difference (p>0.05). Histopathological investigation of placental and fetal tissues of positive samples showed tissue cyst-like structure, necrotic foci, and infiltration of mononuclear cells. Other lesions were thickening in chorionic plate in placenta, severe vacuolization and death of neurons, microgliosis, demyelination, edema, and proliferation of astrocytes in brain. In addition, fibrous and fat deposition with stenosis in the heart, parenchymal necrosis, severe atrophy, vacuolization and hyalinization of hepatocytes, megakaryocyte, portal fibrosis in the liver, and interlobular septal thickening in lung without obvious lesions is seen in the thymus tissue samples. This is a unique study that confirmed N. caninum DNA in the placenta of aborted ewes in Iraq using PCR assay. Histopathological analysis of some aborted fetuses organs could provide a more confirmatory and reliable data for a significant role of neosporosis in increasing the rate of abortion in sheep, while the clinical data of risk factors could be used to control the transmission of N. caninum infection. Keywords: histopathology, Iraq, Neospora caninum, polymerase chain reaction, sheep.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of binahong leaf powder to quail rations on the production and quality of eggs. The study involved the use of two hundred 7-week-old quails housed evenly in 20 wire cages with a body weight of 123.77±0.72 g. The quails were treated as follows: Ration without binahong leaf powder (T0), addition 2% of binahong leaf powder (T1), addition 4% of binahong leaf powder (T2), and addition 6% of binahong leaf powder (T3). The study used a completely randomized design. The parameters measured were the production, weight, and characteristics of the eggs, as well as the cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and egg protein content in the yolk. The addition of 2-6% binahong powder did not significantly affect egg production, egg characteristics, or egg protein content, but significantly (p<0.05) affected the cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, and LDL contents in yolk. The cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL contents decreased significantly in T1, whereas HDL increased significantly in T2 and T3. The addition of 2% binahong was enough to obtain healthy quail eggs with low levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL. Keywords: binahong, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride.